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Travel to Iriomote Island
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Travel to Iriomote Island! What is Iriomote Island?
Iriomote Island is part of the Yaeyama Islands in Taketomi Town, Okinawa Prefecture.
Other Yaeyama Islands include Ishigaki, Kuroshima, and Kohama, which are closer to Taiwan than to the main island of Okinawa.
Iriomote Island, with an area of about 280㎢, is about 1/2 the size of Awaji Island, but is the largest island in Okinawa Prefecture, excluding the main island.
So this time, we will look at the charm of Iriomote Island, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of beautiful natural scenery and a variety of activities.
The entire island is designated as a national park
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park was designated as a national park in May of 1972, and allows visitors to experience all the natural beauty of Okinawa.
The area is home to mangrove forests, coral reefs, and other subtropical forests, as well as the ocean, which is typical of Okinawa, and is inhabited by a wide variety of creatures.
In addition to the ocean and sandy beaches, visitors will be able to enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, animal watching, and other experiences that they would not normally have the chance to do.
Climate of Iriomote Island
Because Iriomote Island is close to the equator, it does not feel as cold as the Japanese archipelago and is warm all year round.
In the Japanese archipelago, you need to wear a coat to keep out the cold, but here on Iriomote Island, the maximum temperature often exceeds 20°C even in winter, and you can spend your days in short sleeves and lightweight long T-shirts.
However, in January and February, the temperature sometimes drops below 10°C, so it might be a good idea to prepare a sweatshirt or a light coat.
In addition, it is not uncommon for summer temperatures to exceed 30°C (86°F), so take precautions against heat stroke!
In July and August, typhoons are particularly frequent, so it is necessary to check information frequently.
So when is the best season to travel to Iriomote Island?
Best season to travel to Iriomote Island
In fact, Iriomote Island is a year-round tourist destination.
However, if you are going to make a trip, don't you want to go to Iriomote Island at the best time?
The best time to visit Iriomote Island would be from July to September, after the rainy season.
However, we have to know the weather in July and August because of typhoons.
Also, since the prices are inevitably higher at this time of year and reservations for meals and activities may fill up quickly, early reservations are recommended.
Budget for travel to Iriomote Island
The budget will vary depending on your plans, but for a 3-day stay, the market price is about 40,000 yen and up, and for a week, about 70,000 yen and up.
The budget may vary depending on the hotel where you stay, the flight, etc. If you want to do a lot of sightseeing, make sure you have enough money in your budget.
In Iriomote Island, you can also rent a car, so sightseeing with a rental car may be a good option.
How to get to Iriomote Island
There is no airport on Iriomote Island, so you must change planes at Ishigaki Island.
From Ishigakijima Airport to that terminal, you can take a local bus, cab or rental car.
Once you arrive at the terminal, take the high-speed ferry to Uehara or Ohara Port on Iriomote Island.
I will try to introduce its detailed contents.
By high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island
To get to Iriomote Island, you need to take a ferry from Ishigaki Island.
Advance reservations are required for the ferry, and the cost differs if you get off at Uehara Port or Ohara Port.
For those who do not usually have the experience of taking a ferry as well, it will be a good memory.
One of the best ways to see the sights is to take in the natural air for about 40 minutes and enjoy the panoramic view of nature.
Uehara Port and Ohara Port in Iriomote Island determined by purpose
Sightseeing plans on Iriomote Island vary from person to person, and where you head from Ishigaki Island depends on where you want to go sightseeing and what kind of activities you want to experience.
There are two routes from Ishigaki Island to Iriomote Island: Uehara Port and Ohara Port.
Here are some of the differences in sightseeing and activities at the two ports.
Uehara Port for activity participation
Uehara Port is recommended for those who want to enjoy activities to the fullest.
At Uehara Port, you can enjoy snorkeling and diving mainly on the beach and fully experience nature.
In addition, there are many tourist attractions near Uehara Port, including Hoshisuna Beach and Barasu Island, which are densely populated with very busy tourist attractions.
If you want to enjoy activities in the ocean to the fullest, please visit Uehara Port.
Ohara Port for a relaxing trip
Ohara Port, on the contrary, is a local tourist destination, where you can spend a quiet and relaxing time.
One of the most famous attractions of Ohara Port is the Nakama River mangrove cruise.
The cruise allows you to take your time to see the sights while taking in the scenery, and with a fun guide, it is a very educational experience.
Those who want a relaxing trip should get off at Ohara Port, as canoeing and trekking, which are unique to the river, can also be experienced.
Getting Around Iriomote Island
Since there are no trains on Iriomote Island, you may want to consider in advance which means of sightseeing you will use.
Transportation options include shuttle buses, car rentals, and bicycle rentals arranged by tourist attractions.
Here are the advantages of each.
Participate in activities with transportation
On Iriomote Island, you can experience numerous activities.
One of the major advantages of this would be to participate in activities that include transportation, which would eliminate unnecessary expenses and allow for smooth travel.
Private Travel Car Rental
Although advance reservations are required, renting a car is a highly recommended means of getting to many tourist attractions.
The cost varies depending on the type of car rented and the time it takes, but prices range from 5,000 yen per day, making it a convenient choice for those who wish to visit both Uehara and Ohara ports.
Explore the great outdoors by bicycle! Rent a Bicycle
If you are interested in sightseeing while enjoying the atmosphere of the island, renting a bicycle is recommended.
You can enjoy sightseeing while soaking up the great outdoors, so everyone can have a good time together.
They can be rented at gas stations or at places where you stay, so check in advance.
Iriomote Island Travel Suggested Activities
Many activities can be experienced on Iriomote Island.
Experience activities unique to Iriomote Island and spend your trip in elegance.
Here we introduce various activities in Iriomote Island.
Enjoy the great nature of Iriomote Island! SUP/Canoeing
On Iriomote Island, you can experience SUP and canoeing while surrounded by nature with no man-made structures.
SUP stands for Stand Up Paddle surfing, a new and popular activity in which you paddle while standing up.
Both activities are safe and enjoyable for beginners, so please consider them.
Observe countless coral reefs! Barras Island Snorkeling
Snorkeling on Barasu Island, known as the Island of Miracles, where you can enjoy the numerous coral reefs.
This is a powerful activity that allows you to see not only coral reefs but also rare tropical fish.
How about after enjoying canoeing or SUP in the mangroves?
Exhilarating experience! Splash Canyoning
Splash canyoning, as the name implies, is an athletic activity in which visitors jump into the river and follow the current downstream.
This would be a great experience for those who like roller coasters and high places.
There are low areas so that even those who are not comfortable with heights can experience it with ease.
Great adventure in the limestone caves of Iriomote Island! Caving
Caving is a yet-to-be-known cave exploration experience in Japan.
This activity gives you a sense of accomplishment as you slip through nature while wearing headlights.
You can be very assured that you will be supported by professionals who will assist you with what to bring and what to look out for.
It is sure to be a very thrilling experience for your children.
Essential Sightseeing Spots for Iriomote Island Travel
Iriomote Island has a mountain of sights that cannot be seen in the Japanese archipelago.
Here are some of the best places to visit.
Barras Island
The island of Barras is often used for weddings, as it is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that are considered miraculous.
It is also a popular spot with many repeat visitors every year, and celebrities come to visit as their personal guests.
The best time to visit Baras Island is at sunset.
The setting sun turns the entire ocean a madder red, offering a panoramic view that is too beautiful to be true.
A visit with family or as a couple is sure to be a memorable experience of a lifetime.
Mizuochi Falls
Mizunouchi Falls on Iriomote Island is known as an unexplored waterfall that can only be reached by boat or other means.
This is a unique spot where a waterfall with a steep drop flows directly into the river, allowing visitors to bathe in the waterfall while riding in a boat or canoe.
Surrounded by pristine nature, you will feel as if you are deep in the jungle.
It is a healing spot for water sports, where you can enjoy the great nature unique to Iriomote Island.
beach of star sand
Star sand can be seen at a popular beach in the northern part of Iriomote Island.
These are the shells of creatures such as star-shaped "foraminifera," and are about a 10-minute drive from Uehara Port on Iriomote Island.
Snorkeling and camping can also be experienced on its beaches, and the panoramic view of a variety of fish makes it a highly recommended tourist spot.
Omija Waterfall
Omija Falls is located in the upper reaches of the Omija River and is a very popular canyoning spot.
With a drop of only about 3 meters, it is a safe and enjoyable sightseeing spot.
However, it is located in the mountains and there is a possibility of slipping on rocks and injuring yourself.
If you are a nature lover, this is a great place to visit, so please consider it as one of your candidates.
Pinaisara Falls
Pinaisara Falls is an adventurous, all-day destination, with repeated canoeing and walking.
Although the price is a little high at 13,000 yen, the experience is more than worth the price.
The main attraction is the spectacular view from the top of the waterfall.
By moving your body, you will have an experience that you would not normally feel.
There are many other attractions in the area, so if you want to get moving, why not visit Pinaisara Falls?
Yubu Island (Hiroshima-Nagoya Island)
Yubu Island is located only 400 meters away from Iriomote Island, which can be called a stone's throw away.
The circumference of Yubu Island is 2.15 km, and it takes about one hour to go around the island on foot, so it is not a large island.
With a current population of about 10 people, you can see that it is not an island with a large community.
Surrounded by buffalo carts and nature, it is highly recommended for a relaxing, island-like experience.
Why not experience the best of the tropics on Yubu Island, where you can interact with rare plants and animals and enjoy delicious gourmet food?
Tudumari Beach
Tudumari beach is a great spot for a stroll.
The sandy beach is covered with coral reefs and is so smooth and clean that you can walk barefoot without injury.
Also, at sunset, it is a romantic time to take a walk with couples or pets.
Mariyudu Falls
This Mariyudu Falls is located on the Urauchi River and was selected as one of the 100 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan.
Around the waterfall, there is a grove of tree ferns that cannot normally be seen, and it takes about 40 minutes through the jungle to reach the waterfall.
You can feel the vastness of nature and enjoy trekking through the jungle.
pale chub (Zacco platypus)
Speaking of the Nakama River, the Nakama River Mangrove Cruise is the best way to experience nature from a boat.
This cruise departs from Ohara Port, so it is very accessible, and best of all, you can take it without a reservation.
Prices are 1,000 yen for elementary school students and 2,000 yen for adults.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely tour of the site, taking in the different views at high and low tide on the ocean.
Points to keep in mind when traveling to Iriomote Island
When traveling on Iriomote Island, you must check the weather and local information and make a firm schedule.
Here are some notes about Iriomote Island.
Be prepared for sudden rain
Iriomote Island has many mountains, and temperatures and precipitation rates vary depending on altitude differences and updrafts.
Therefore, it may rain suddenly, although for a short period of time.
In addition, during the rainy season and in winter, it can rain for long periods of time.
The rain, known as squalls, are extremely windy and can break even a folding umbrella.
It is best to wait until it stops pouring, as using an umbrella is dangerous.
Sunscreen is a must.
The average temperature in Mt. Iriomote is high all year round, and sunscreen is a necessity.
It may seem like a hassle, but afterwards, your trip will be ruined by physical pain.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to wear sunscreen and enjoy your trip in good physical condition.
Sometimes the ferry is cancelled the day before!
Even if you have booked a ferry to go to Iriomote Island, it may be forced to cancel due to weather conditions.
Especially in winter, the monsoon winds are so strong that it is impossible to operate the ship, so it is often cancelled the day before.
Because of this, it is always a good idea to check the operation status.
summary
In this issue, we introduced travel to Iriomote Island.
Iriomote Island is a highly recommended tourist destination because you can experience firsthand the rare creatures and nature.
There are also numerous activities such as canoeing, snorkeling, trekking, and other island-specific experiences.
Thank you for watching until the end.
This article was written by.
